Tarmac apprentice is among the first to complete new education programme in quarrying

Luke Fairhurst joined the construction solutions company, Tarmac, in 2018 and came top of the class in the new Professional Operator Development Programme (PODP) – a vocational qualification in mobile and static operations.

The qualification aims to enhance apprentices’ professional understanding of the industry, the equipment and important safety practices including risk assessments and the best ways to maintain the plant and its equipment. This training has helped Luke in his role at one of Yorkshire’s biggest asphalt and concrete plants which produces materials used in local and regional infrastructure projects.

Luke said, “I’m really proud to be one of the first in the country to get this new qualification. A lot of people might not be aware of the work that the quarrying and extractives industry does, as it’s often behind the scenes.”

He added, “It’s great to be part of creating the built environment of the future and having the support to learn and progress in a rewarding career along the way and I’d encourage anyone interested to explore the opportunities available.”

Lee Mitchell, Production Manager and Luke’s Line Manager, said “Everyone at Cross Green is really proud of Luke for this achievement and it’s great to see him developing his skills in a role he is passionate about.”

The POPD qualification is an element of Tarmac's range of professional development and training initiatives, aimed at creating a skilled workforce to support the delivery of the UK's infrastructure ambitions.

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